When it comes to roasting chicken, having the right rack can make all the difference in getting evenly browned and cooked meat with crispy skin. There are a few key factors to consider when choosing the best roasting rack for chicken.
Elevated Design
An elevated rack lifts the chicken up off the bottom of the pan so the hot air can circulate all around it. This allows for even cooking and prevents the chicken from stewing in its own juices. Elevated racks come in V-shaped, circular, and flat styles. The V-shaped and circular racks help the chicken cook evenly by suspending it in the middle of the pan.
Sturdy Construction
A quality rack needs to be sturdy enough to hold the weight of a whole chicken without collapsing. Look for racks made from stainless steel or heavy duty wire that won’t bend or warp in the high heat of the oven. Flimsy, lightweight racks may bend when loaded with the chicken, causing uneven cooking.
Nonstick Coating
A nonstick coating prevents the chicken from sticking to the rack, which could tear the delicate skin when removing it. Nonstick racks allow the chicken to gently release once cooked for perfect presentation. Enameled and chrome-plated racks provide effortless release.
Optimal Airflow
For thorough browning and heat circulation, the rack should have open bars or wire construction that enables ample airflow. Closed-top racks can block airflow, leading to undercooked areas.
Adjustable Size
An expandable rack with adjustable wires or sliding pegs can accommodate different sizes of chickens from small Cornish hens up to large roasters. The ability to adjust the rack size ensures the chicken sits securely without wobbling during roasting.
Compatibility
Make sure to choose a rack that fits the size pans you use for roasting. Some racks come with pan sets or are designed specifically for rimmed baking sheets, roasting pans, or disposable aluminum pans.
Ease of Use
A good roasting rack should be easy to load the raw chicken onto and remove the cooked chicken from. Handles allow you to transfer the hot rack safely to and from the oven. Some racks feature built-in lifters to make getting the chicken on and off hassle-free.
Durability
For a rack you’ll use over and over, durability is key. Look for racks made of materials like stainless steel that will withstand years of high heat roasting without warping. Avoid cheap racks that may bend or break down after just a few uses.
Portability
If you’ll be transporting roasted chicken, choose a rack with built-in handles so you can easily move it from oven to platter. Collapsible and stackable racks are also handy for compact storage.
Value
You can find roasting racks ranging from just a few dollars for basic wire racks up to $50 or more for premium stainless steel racks. Make sure to choose a rack that fits your budget, cookware, and roasting frequency to get your money’s worth.
Top Rack Picks
Based on the criteria above, here are top recommended roasting racks to get perfect chicken every time:
| Rack | Key Features |
|---|---|
| OXO Good Grips Nonstick Roasting Rack | Foldable, nonstick coating, stainless steel, fits sheet pans |
| Cuisinart Chef’s Classic Oval Roasting Rack | Oval shape, stainless steel, cool grip handles |
| Nordic Ware Roasting Essentials Rack | Adjustable, BPA-free, lift-out handles, fits roasters |
Conclusion
When shopping for the ideal roasting rack, look for one with an elevated, nonstick design that promotes airflow and evenly cooks chicken while making it easy to get in and out of the oven. Sturdy stainless steel construction provides durability for years of roasting delicious chicken. With the right rack, you can achieve perfectly roasted chicken every time.